How To Take Care of Mental Health of Children During COVID-19 Second Wave?
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The global pandemic has taken a severe toll on the mental health of people all around the world. Children have been stuck in their homes for more than a year already with no signs of the situation getting better anytime soon. In such trying times, it is important to take care of the mental health of children. Not only do we need to take care of them physically, but also look at their mental health.
How To Take Care Of Mental Health Of Children During COVID-19 Second Wave?
Everybody has different concerns and issues to deal with and that may be affecting their mental well-being. However, here are some general pointers that you must keep in mind to take care of the mental health of children:
1. Help Them Stay Connected
With the pandemic, children have been confined to their homes, and away from their schools, parks and friends. Make sure they stay connected with their friends so that feelings of loneliness and hopelessness can become manageable. Weekly video calls or voice calls with family members of the same age group like cousins or neighbours and classmates is a good idea. There is also a multitude of virtual games that can be played together that can help lift their mood.
2. Keep Them Away from Misinformation
Children are now naturally spending a large chunk of their time on social media because of online classes. This also makes them susceptible to misinformation or fake news that might be circulating. This can cause unnecessary panic in them and take a toll on their mental health. Answer their queries with the correct information and provide them with the correct data if you see them getting influenced by false news.
3. Put Filters on Their Devices
With death and devastation all around, there has been an increase in the circulation of videos showing the situation. While there is a need for awareness, it might be too much for children to see such videos. Most social media and video streaming apps like YouTube have child safety filters that keep away videos that might be triggering. Putting such controls will help children stay away from triggering content.
4. Keep Them Calm and Collected
It is very natural to get anxious in the current situation. Adults are facing its consequences, and it can be much harder for children who might not know how to put a name to the feelings. However, if they do voice their worries, make sure you are gentle with them. Do not dismiss them or scold them as it will only draw them further back into their shell. Instead, talk it out with them so that you can keep them calm and collected.
5. Keep Them Engaged
Keep children engaged with various activities to take their minds off from the devastation that is going on currently. The second COVID-19 wave has been far deadlier than the previous one. In such difficult times, it is important to keep your child away from bad news. The best way to do it is to keep them engaged in activities that they are inclined to do.
Endnotes
The mental health of every individual is as important as their physical health. The pandemic has had a terrible impact on the mental health of adults. It is only imaginable how hard it can be for children. Take close care and keep in mind the above pointers to take care of the mental health of children during the COVID-19 second wave.
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Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.
